It’s been 10 years since franchisees Rob and Jean McLean began working the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at NRG Park. The husband and wife team had no idea back in 2006 that it would turn into what it has today. The Rodeo is one of the largest events in the Maui Wowi system and each year, the McLeans set out to break their record.
Texans and visitors from around the world come out to attend the 20-day event that occurs every spring. They enjoy everything from traditional western competitions like bull riding and steer wrestling to taking in the tunes of America’s top headline performers in a variety of genres. There’s something for everyone.
2016 Houston Rodeo Facts:
- More than 2.46 million visitors
Drinks:
- Top Smoothie Flavors: Strawberry, Pina Colada
At this particular event, Maui Wowi’s delicious fruit smoothies could also be made into delicious adult beverages such as daiquiris and margaritas. These drinks are so popular, there is almost always a line of concertgoers stampeding for a taste of Hawaii.
Introducing alcohol to their menu for this event, required some adjustments in their operation. The McLeans simplified the menu to streamline transactions and keep the line moving. This past year, they also added additional blending stations and registers to keep up with demand.
But the Rodeo isn’t just about breaking records for the McLeans, it’s also an opportunity to teach and to learn. Every year, the McLeans invite their fellow franchisees, or ‘ohana, to stop by and visit them at the Rodeo. It’s a chance to get an inside look at their operation and learn from one another. Franchisee Mark Rome lives in the Houston area and decided to take them up on their offer.
Mark worked at one of the McLean’s larger kiosks at the stadium and was pleasantly surprised at how smooth the operation worked. They had three employees making drinks, while two cashiers on the ends of the kiosk handled the money and checked ID’s.
“I found it to be a quick way to get customers through the line because, while I was making the frozen cocktails, the cashier would take care of the transaction,” said Mark. “It was a great experience and very exciting to take part in.”
The McLeans also appreciated Mark’s visit and saw it as an introspective occasion. “It’s always nice to have someone around with experience asking questions,” said Jean. “It’s an opportunity for us to reevaluate why we are doing things a certain way.”
With the Rodeo now a wrap, the McLeans keep on truckin’. They have a busy summer ahead and some huge events on the horizon.
- Summer stadium tours – Beyoncé and Guns & Roses
- COPA America Soccer Tournament – 3 Day Event
- 2017 Super Bowl